Please help me choose a vintage Omega - Pie Pan or flat dial Constellation?

Hi everyone,

I’m considering purchasing a vintage 1962 Omega Constellation Pie Pan from a reputable dealer. The watch looks to be in mint condition, but the bezel is a replacement made to match the original. While I understand originality is important in vintage collecting, I’m primarily looking for a well-preserved piece that maintains the correct aesthetic. Would a replaced bezel significantly impact the long-term value or collectability of this model?

Here are some pictures:


Alternatively, I’m also looking at an Omega Constellation Automatic Ref. 14902 with a freckled dial. This one is fully original (it has a service crown in the pucture but the watchmaker will put the original back on), but the dial has developed patina over time. While it offers better originality, it doesn’t have the pristine look of the Pie Pan.

Here are some pictures:



I’d love to hear insights from those with experience in vintage Omegas—does a replaced bezel on the Pie Pan outweigh the originality of the 14902, or would the latter be a better long-term piece? Both are roughly the same price, the Pie Pan is only a couple of hundred dollars more. Both are fully serviced from reputable professional dealers.

Thanks in advance!

Thanks for your replies!

The Pie Pan with the AM bezel comes to AUD2500 and the 14902 comes to AUD$1900.

I have another option, this cream Pie Pan for about AUD$2700. Do you think it looks all original? It is from a professional dealer too. TIA!

I'm not a collector. I buy watches to wear, and I would wear the hell out of all the watches you have shown us here. I like all three. And given the value (or lack thereof) of the Australian dollar, I don't think the prices being asked are crazy. But if you are worried about collectability and re-sale value, I'd steer clear of a replaced bezel. Ultimately, the decision is up to you: what do you like, and how much are you willing to pay?

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Welcome @wombat_time,

Once you've decided to buy a Constellation it is incredibly tempting (and understandable) to want to get a watch as soon as possible - and it almost doesn't matter which Constellation.

You'll find it much more pleasurable (and ultimately more satisfying) if you settle on the style of Constellation that really floats your boat and try and find a good example of that particular style of watch.

BTW - the dogleg you show is a dome dial, flat dial Constellations came in later in the 60s in different references.

best of luck on your hunt